The Long County High School boys’ basketball team claimed a region win Friday by defeating Atkinson County, 69-52, in Ludowici.
The game was close through three periods of play as the Blue Tide held a 44-42 lead going into the fourth quarter. But in the final period, the Tide exploded, outscoring the visitors, 25-10.  
Jamaal Anderson led Long County with 22 points. Josh Berry had 14 points, Clay Strickland had 13 points, and Chris LaRochester had 12 points. Zach Colson led Atkinson with 21 points.
“In the first half, we weren’t getting any put-backs; we were forcing it and couldn’t make any layups,” Blue Tide head coach Deshone Brock said. “But Clay Strickland did play well, giving us a big spark coming off of the bench.”
Brock also praised Anderson.
“Jamaal played a good game. When three of our starters got into foul trouble in the second quarter, he kept things going and stabilized our offense,” Brock said. “Josh (Berry) also came up with a big 3-pointer that broke their backs … it was just a good team effort in the second half.”
With the win Long County improved its overall record to 8-8 and their 2B-AA Sub-Region mark to 2-2.  
The Blue Tide is back on the court Tuesday when they travel to Pembroke to face Bryan County. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.